Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a beloved dish that combines crispy chicken pieces with a tangy, flavorful sauce. This popular Chinese-American recipe is a comforting and satisfying meal that you can easily make at home. Whether you’re craving takeout or looking for a fun homemade dinner, this recipe will hit the spot.

Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Chicken

To make this recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create the perfect balance of sweetness and tang.

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch (for coating)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice (or water)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

Instructions for Sweet and Sour Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This makes the chicken easier to cook and eat. Season the pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour. Dip each chicken piece first into the egg mixture, then coat it with the flour and cornstarch mixture, ensuring the pieces are evenly coated.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small piece of chicken in to see if it sizzles), carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded in the pan.

Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, ketchup, sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Whisk everything together over medium heat.

In a separate small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the saucepan and stir until the sauce begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

Add the fried chicken pieces to a large bowl or pan. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat all pieces evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your homemade Sweet and Sour Chicken with steamed rice or a side of veggies. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. This dish is a great family meal or party appetizer!

Recipe Notes

• For a Healthier Version: You can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Simply coat the chicken pieces as described and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Sauce Variations: If you like a spicier kick, add a bit of chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the sweet and sour sauce.
• Make it Veggie-Friendly: For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or even cauliflower florets.

Time and Serving Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Serving Size: 1-2 chicken breasts (depending on appetite)

Storage Tips

Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken might lose some of its crispiness, but it will still taste delicious when reheated.

Freezing:

For long-term storage, you can freeze the Sweet and Sour Chicken. First, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, and then toss it with the sauce before serving.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Sweet and Sour Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce separately, store them in the fridge, and then assemble them when you’re ready to serve. Reheat the chicken and sauce separately before combining.

2. How can I make Sweet and Sour Chicken spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version, add some chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce. Start with a small amount, and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the flavors.

3. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative. They are slightly juicier and richer in flavor compared to chicken breasts, making them a fantastic choice for this dish.

4. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for frying. Frozen chicken can release too much moisture, making it harder to achieve that crispy texture. Always thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you like a thicker sauce, simply make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a little water and adding it to the sauce while it’s simmering. Stir and cook until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, double the recipe for the sweet and sour sauce and pour it over the chicken generously. It’ll add even more flavor!
• Crispy Chicken Tip: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. If it’s too cold, the chicken will absorb the oil and become greasy; if it’s too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken cooks.

How to Serve Sweet and Sour Chicken

Sweet and Sour Chicken is best served with a side of steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal. You can also pair it with sautéed vegetables or a simple side salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large Skillet or Wok for frying
• Small saucepan for making the sauce
• Large bowl for coating the chicken
• Tongs or slotted spoon for frying
• Whisk for stirring the sauce

Final Thoughts

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a fantastic homemade recipe that brings all the flavors of your favorite takeout dish into your kitchen. It’s tangy, savory, and has just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit. With a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can recreate this beloved classic in no time. Enjoy!